The Health & Genetics Committee continually evaluates and recommends funding for studies that are of great importance to the health of breed. Recent studies include the important health issue of degenerative myelopathy.
The Committee objective is to have more GSD testing performed and to have results published so that information is available to breeders and researchers. Contact chair Carolyn Gerganoff for more information.
CHIC Program & Certificate
The CHIC program is a centralized canine health database jointly sponsored by the AKC Canine Health Foundation and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.
GSD Specific Requirements for CHIC Certificate:
- Hip Dysplasia through OFA evaluation
- Elbow Dysplasia through OFA evaluation
- Temperament Test – Passing results of GSDCA Temperament test submitted to OFA
Read more: CHIC Program & Certificate >>
GSDCA Health Award of Merit
The GSDCA Health Award of Merit is presented to current club members whose GSD has passed the parent club’s comprehensive set of required health tests and evaluations. Tests are verified on the OFA Database.
The current requirements for the Health Award of Merit include passing: OFA Hips & Elbows, GSDCA Temperament Test, OFA Cardiac and Thyroid tests. The requirement to perform and publish the DM test is also included, but because of continuing research, the dog’s DNA status/results will not disqualify a dog.
Read more: GSDCA Health Award of Merit Criteria >>
The American German Shepherd Dog Charitable Foundation provides support to health studies and research for German Shepherd Dogs.
Links to Additional Health and Genetic Research Articles
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) Research Abstract & Form >>
The Status & Predictability of Current Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) Testing >>
Genetics of fibrotic myopathy in the German Shepherd Dog >>
Is Canine Epilepsy Associated with Gut Dysbiosis? >>
Targeted Therapies in Canine Hemangiosarcoma (PDF) >>
Genome-wide Association Study for Multiple Diseases of the GSD (PDF) >> submitted by Dr. Jean Dodds . This informative study of certain GSD health and genetic issues is also published in the GSD Review.
Test for Degerative Myelopathy >> – A DNA test is now available for use by vets, breeders and pet owners through the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals – ofa.org)
Hemangiosarcoma >> – Information on canine hemangiosarcoma from the University of Minnesota veterinary school.
Quick Reference Guide for GDV – Bloat (PDF) >>
Long-term Medical Effects of Spay/Neuter in Dogs (PDF) >>
Very precise information and a compilation of the health issues, both pro and con, of spay/neuter in dogs, particularly in young animals.
Neutering Dogs: Effects on Joint Disorders and Cancers in Golden Retrievers >>
This is a great research paper about the effects of early neutering/spaying. (It has drop downs for the different sections)
